How to Cut Saiga Barrels

Saiga rifles and shotguns are produced by the Izhmash arms division of Russia. The weapons are distributed via the Russian-American Armory Company. As with all weapons, including Saiga rifles and shotguns, maintnenance or modification may be needed or desired from time to time. Shortening a Saiga barrel offers more maneuverability and less weight in a tactical or field environment, though this process reduces effective range. Cutting a Saiga barrel can be accomplished using a few gunsmith tools.

Things You'll Need

  • Padded gun or barrel vise
  • Hardened cutting fixture
  • Hacksaw
  • File
  • Lapping compound
  • Rotary tool (with buffing attachment)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Unload the weapon completely. Inspect the chamber to ensure that no live ammunition is present.

    • 2

      Secure the weapon in a padded gun vise. Ensure the barrel is accessible to work.

    • 3

      Mark the length you want to shorten the barrel. Note that firearm barrel length is regulated in specific areas, particularly with shotguns. Consult your local law enforcement agency to determine a legal barrel length in your area.

    • 4

      Place the hardened cutting fixture onto the barrel at your mark. This is the guide for you to cut the barrel and file the crown.

    • 5

      Cut through the barrel using a hacksaw. Secure the weapon upright -- muzzle pointing at the ceiling -- in the barrel vise.

    • 6

      Place the flat metal file on top of the barrel. File back and forth until the barrel crown is flat and flush with the hardened cutting fixture. Buff the crown using lapping compound and a rotary buffing tool. This removes any burring left from filing.